Primetime Pick… 7/16/17

Tonight, Game of Thrones finally returns to HBO to kick off the short, penultimate season of the series. When we last let off, things were being set in motion toward the series’ ultimate endgame. Daenerys joined forces with Dorne and the Tyrells, and the army set sail for Westeros. Meanwhile, Arya finally learned that she was better off not being a girl with no name, and she, too, was headed for Westeros to cross another name off her list. In the Citadel, Samwell was introduced to the vast library but had to leave Gilly at the door. At the Wall, Bran tapped into a tree and finished his dream, where he learned of Jon’s true lineage. In Winterfell, with Lady Mormont’s backing, Jon Snow claimed the title of King of the North. And finally, in King’s Landing, Cersei reclaimed the Iron Throne after she used the secret stores of green wildfire to blow up the Sept where the High Sparrow, Queen Margaery, and most of the Faith Militant were awaiting her arrival for her trial. Unfortunately, Cersei’s last remaining son, King Tommen, was devastated over the loss of his wife and killed himself, thus fulfilling the prophesy that had been foretold to Cersei.

I am really looking forward to tonight’s premiere. Last season was easily the most exciting yet, and I think that was partially due to the fact that the series had moved past the material from the books, so the writers had a little more freedom. All the pieces seem to finally be coming together as the various parties are ultimately heading toward their clash for the Iron Throne. The series still has two major things to tackle before the end, and I’m not sure which of those we will see this season: How are these people going to defeat the White Walkers, and who will ultimately sit atop the Iron Throne? Also, what does the presumed fact that Jon Snow is both a Stark and a Targaryen mean to this upcoming battle for the throne? It should be another exciting (but too short) season, and I can’t wait to finally get some new episodes!

On tonight’s premiere, “Dragonstone,” Jon organizes the defense of the North; Cersei tries to even the odds; Daenerys comes home.

If you missed any of the 6th season or want to see it again, HBO will be airing a marathon starting at 11:30am ET on HBO2, with the sixth season finale and seventh season premiere airing on the main HBO channel.

Don’t miss the long-awaited premiere tonight on HBO at 9/8c.

I’ll also be watching/recording The Strain, Celebrity Family Feud, The $100,000 Pyramid, Big Brother, and Food Network Star.